The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced Government of Canada investments totalling $2,665,565 in support of seven strategic initiatives led by Indigenous communities, businesses, and organizations in Northwestern Ontario.
The funding amounts listed below are in part provided through FedNor's Northern Ontario Development Program, which invests in projects led by municipalities, First Nations, and other organizations and institutions that support community economic development, diversification, job creation and self-reliant communities in Northern Ontario.
Mishkeegogamang First Nation - $912,165
Mishkeegogamang First Nation is receiving an investment of $912,165 to support the construction of a business development and training centre. The facility will house a business development hub, an economic development office, and training and multi-purpose rooms. In addition, the centre will house the Missaby Economic Development Corporation, space for five current community joint venture partnerships, and space for new private businesses to receive support.
Nokiiwin Tribal Council Inc. - $583,854
Nokiiwin Tribal Council Inc. (NTC) is receiving an investment of $583,854 to support the development, updating, and implementation of comprehensive community plans for NTC's member communities. FedNor's investment will also enable the hiring of a project coordinator to lead the initiative, as well as engagement sessions, planning meetings, and training workshops.
Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation - $326,846
Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation is receiving an investment of $326,846 to support capital upgrades and the acquisition of new equipment for their sawmill and bio-energy site. This project will include site preparation and construction for a Quonset-style processing building, purchase and installation of a wood stove, electrical infrastructure improvements, and the acquisition of a tractor and other equipment. This investment will enable the sawmill and bio-energy site to increase productivity and reduce reliance on diesel generators for heat and electricity.
Grand Council Treaty #3 Representative Services - $310,000
Grand Council Treaty #3 Representative Services is receiving an investment of $310,000 to enable the completion of a food sovereignty prefeasibility study for four the 28 Grand Council Treaty #3 (GCT3) nations. The study will assess four communities at a high level for readiness to act on GCT3's existing comprehensive work plan, while also supporting the creation of a reporting structure. This project will help GCT3 address food sovereignty issues including access to culturally-appropriate foods as well as sustainability, while also supporting potential future opportunities relating to agri-food business and resource evaluation.
Kenora Chiefs Advisory Inc. - $300,000
Kenora Chiefs Advisory Inc. is receiving an investment of $300,000 to support the hiring of an economic development officer for a three-year period. The skilled professional will assist in the creation and implementation of an economic development plan for the organization, while also helping to identify current and future opportunities. The position will further enable Kenora Chiefs Advisory Inc. to continue development of four commercial properties in the Kenora area.
Chi Mino Ozhitoowin General Partner Inc. - $165,200
Chi Mino Ozhitoowin General Partner Inc. (CMO) is receiving an investment of $165,200 to support the hiring of a business manager who will work to identify and develop economic opportunities in the region including those associated with the Waasigan transmission line project. The business manager will aim to create secure and long-term business projects for CMO and its member communities.
Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission - $67,500
The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (TBCEDC) is receiving an investment of $67,500 to support the development of a regional Indigenous economic development impact analysis. In partnership with the Anishnawbe Business Professional Association, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, and Fort William First Nation, the TBCEDC is seeking to evaluate the economic impact of Indigenous business in the city of Thunder Bay. The project will quantify the impact of Indigenous businesses and services while also exploring the economic benefits of Indigenous spending in Thunder Bay, a regional hub for Indigenous services, healthcare, and education. The analysis will support community and business partnerships and relationships, highlight positive information in the community, and foster reconciliation.
